BY NOXOLO DLAMINI
PIGG’S PEAK— Breastfeeding mothers need adequate rest and support at home, while couples should share household responsibilities to ensure mothers are not left carrying the burden alone, National Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) Coordinator Vusi Shabangu has said.
Speaking during a programme on Voice of the Church (VOC) FM, Shabangu emphasised the importance of creating a supportive home environment for breastfeeding mothers, particularly during the demanding period after childbirth.
He said breastfeeding should not be viewed as the sole responsibility of the mother, arguing that partners have an important role to play in making sure mothers have enough time to rest and recover.
> “Breastfeeding mothers need to rest, and couples need to share responsibilities at home,” Shabangu said.
His remarks come as health authorities continue to encourage families and communities to strengthen support for breastfeeding mothers. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby’s life, while continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary foods is recommended up to two years or beyond.
Breastfeeding provides important health benefits to both mother and child, with breast milk supplying essential nutrients during the first six months and helping protect infants against common childhood illnesses.
Shabangu’s call also highlights the role of fathers and other family members in supporting mothers. Sharing duties such as cooking, cleaning, fetching water, shopping and caring for older children can give breastfeeding mothers an opportunity to rest and concentrate on caring for their newborn.
WHO guidelines on postnatal care similarly stress the importance of information, reassurance and support for women, newborns, partners and families during the period after childbirth.
Health experts have increasingly described breastfeeding as a shared responsibility, requiring support not only from mothers but also from partners, families, health workers and communities.
For Shabangu, creating supportive households is therefore an important part of promoting healthier mothers and children, while also encouraging couples to work together in managing family responsibilities.
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(Courtesy Pic)
